Workforce System Response to COVID-19 – May 5 Report

May 5, 2020: The state has released its phased approach to re-opening our economy, and we are working on plans to open all of our facilities when safe to do so. Currently, the disruption to key parts of our regional economy – including restaurants, retail stores, medical and dental practices, construction, and manufacturing – continues to add to a surge in the number of people applying for unemployment insurance benefits for the first time. We are helping meet the demand from our customers by expanding and improving our menu of online services and directing resources to where the needs are greatest. Over 7,000 job seekers and 500 businesses have been able to connect with staff over the past six weeks and get information to help them navigate during this crisis. Click here to read this week’s full report.